General Constipedia

What is constipation?

Constipation is a condition in which you may have fewer than three bowel movements a week; stools that are hard, dry, or lumpy; stools that are difficult or painful to pass; or a feeling that not all stool has passed. Constipation most commonly occurs when waste or stool moves too slowly through the digestive tract or cannot be eliminated effectively from the rectum, which may cause the stool to become hard and dry.

What are some of the common constipation symptoms?

Constipation is commonly associated with symptoms such as irregular bowel movements, excessive straining in passing stools, hardened stools or pain and discomfort associated with stool passage.

What causes constipation?

Constipation may be caused by not eating enough fibre, not drinking enough fluids, physical inactivity, changes in diet or normal activities. It can also be a side-effect of certain medicines, or related to an underlying medical condition. In many cases, the cause is not clear.

What can I do to avoid constipation?

It is necessary to maintain a proper diet for constipation because what you eat can make a difference in your digestive system. Adequate intake of water, proper fibre intake and regular physical activity can help prevent constipation. If your constipation does not go away with self-care or if you have long-term constipation, speak with a doctor.

How do constipation relief products work?

Constipation relief products, such as laxatives, work by stimulating bowel movements. They can soften the stools, and stimulate muscles, making it easier to pass stools. These products should be used as directed and only as a short-term solution.

Are home remedies effective for constipation?

Yes, home remedies can provide some relief for constipation. However, if constipation persists or becomes a recurring issue, it's a good idea to consult a healthcare professional. They can offer personalized advice and suggest appropriate treatment options based on your specific needs and circumstances.

How does the Dulcoflex^® tablet work?

Dulcoflex® is a laxative that provides gentle relief in 6 to 8 hours. It functions by stimulating the movement of the intestines, allowing for a smooth passage of stool. Additionally, it is used to thoroughly cleanse the intestines prior to medical procedures and examinations.

When should I take the Dulcoflex^® tablet?

It is recommended to take Dulcoflex® before bedtime, as it takes 6 to 8 hours for the medication to effectively work. By taking it before sleeping, you allow sufficient time for the medication to work overnight and pass stools in the morning.

How many Dulcoflex^® tablets should I take in a day?

It is important to follow the instructions provided by your physician when taking Dulcoflex® 5mg tablets. In general, the recommended dosage for adults is 1-2 tablets, which should be taken at bedtime. However, it is crucial to consult your doctor for personalized advice based on your specific condition and medical history.

Is Dulcoflex^® a brand recommended by doctors?

Yes, Dulcoflex® is a brand recommended by doctors across India, to manage constipation.

Can we intake Dulcoflex^® daily?

Similar to other laxatives, Dulcoflex® tablets are not typically recommended for daily, long-term use. It is advisable to avoid taking Dulcoflex® on a daily basis for an extended period of time.

Is Dulcoflex safe to take during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Long experience has shown no evidence of undesirable or damaging effects during pregnancy. Nevertheless, as with all drugs, DULCOFLEX® should be taken during pregnancy only on medical advice. Bisacodyl is not distributed into breast milk. Can be used during lactation. Talk to your doctor before taking Dulcoflex if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or are breast feeding.

Can I take Dulcoflex along with other medication?

Tell your doctor if you are taking, have recently taken or might take any other medicines. This is because Dulcoflex can affect the way some other medicines work. Also, some other medicines can affect the way Dulcoflex work. In particular, tell your doctor if you are taking:

a) Diuretics

b) Steroid

c) Other laxative medicines

For what age groups is Dulcoflex safe to consume?

Dulcoflex can be consumed by pediatric population > 4 years of age and adult population. Children aged 10 years or younger with chronic or persistent constipation should only be treated under the guidance of a physician.

What is Dulcoflex^® 10mg Suppository?

Dulcoflex® 10mg Suppository is a laxative medication for adults used for constipation

How does the Dulcoflex^® 10mg suppository work?

Dulcoflex® 10mg Suppository is an effective stimulant laxative that helps facilitate easy bowel movements. It stimulates the muscles in the bowel, aiding in the passage of stool and providing relief from constipation.

How to use the Dulcoflex^® 10mg suppository for adults?

Always use this medicine exactly as your doctor has told you. Otherwise, follow the instructions below. If you do not understand the instructions, or if you are not sure, ask your doctor.

The suppositories should only be used in your back passage.

a. Take off the foil wrapping
b. Lie on one side and pull your knees up towards your chest. Keep one leg drawn up more than the other
c. Use your first finger (index finger) or middle finger to push in the suppository
d. Gently push the suppository as far as possible into your back passage, pointed end first
e. Once it is as far as it will go, push it side-ways to make sure it touches the wall of the bowel
f. Lower your legs to a comfortable position whilst the suppository is retained in place
g. Keep the suppository inside you for at least 30 minutes

What are the uses of the Dulcoflex^® 10mg suppository?

Dulcoflex® 10mg suppository is primarily used for the treatment of constipation. Additionally, it can be used in some medical procedures to cleanse the intestines and assist with the passage of stool.

What are the instructions for storage and disposal Dulcoflex^® 10mg suppository?

Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children

• Do not use Dulcoflex® 10mg suppository after the expiry date.
• Do not store above 25°C
• Keep the blister within the outer carton to protect from light
• Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to throw away medicines you no longer use. These measures will help protect the environment.

Can Dulcoflex^® 10mg suppository be used for long-term treatment in adults, or is it meant for short-term use only?

These suppositories should not be used every day for more than 5 days. If you need laxatives every day, then you should see your doctor to find the cause of your constipation. Overuse can be harmful.

What is Dulcoflex^® 5mg suppository?

Dulcoflex® 5mg suppository is a laxative medication for kids used for constipation.

How do Dulcoflex^® 5mg suppositories work in children?

Dulcoflex® 5mg suppositories work by stimulating the bowel muscles, facilitating bowel movements, and helping the stool pass in children

Are Dulcoflex^® 5mg suppositories safe and effective for children?

Dulcoflex® 5mg suppositories can be well tolerated and effective for children when used as directed and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

What are the uses of the Dulcoflex^® 5mg suppository?

Dulcoflex® 5mg suppository is primarily used to treat constipation. Additionally, it can be used in some medical procedures to cleanse the intestines and assist with the passage of stool.

How long does it usually take for Dulcoflex^® 5mg suppositories to show effect in children?

Dulcoflex® 5mg suppositories typically stimulate a bowel movement within approximately 20 minutes after insertion in children.

For more information, visit www.sanofi.in

References:

1. IMS MAT April’23

2. Prescribing Information for Bisacodyl CCDS V1 dated 23rd Apr 2020 sanofi.in/dam/jcr:659be037-3aa9-4c23-bd9d-2791888f9539/Dulcoflex PI_Sep 2021.pdf Accessed on 23rd June 2023

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10. Kienzle-Horn S, Vix JM, Schuijt C, Peil H, Jordan CC, Kamm MA. Comparison of bisacodyl and sodium picosulphate in the treatment of chronic constipation. Curr Med Res Opin. 2007 Apr;23(4):691-9. doi: 10.1185/030079907x178865. 

11. Crockett SD, Greer KB, Heidelbaugh JJ, Falck-Ytter Y, Hanson BJ, Sultan S; American Gastroenterological Association Institute Cpnical Guidepnes Committee. American Gastroenterological Association Institute Guidepne on the Medical Management of Opioid-Induced Constipation. Gastroenterology. 2019 Jan;156(1):218-226. doi: 10.1053/j.gastro.2018.07.016.PMID30340754

12. Package Insert